Growing up in Fort Pierce and on the Treasure Coast, Florida State cross country runner Caleb Pottorff has experienced his share of severe weather. Last year, Hurricane Matthew brushed to the city's east by 35 miles.

Pottorff is now bracing for the arrival of Hurricane Irma, a storm known for his ravaging power and unpredictability.

Irma, once projected to head up Florida's east coast, is expected to batter Tallahassee with sustained tropical force winds and hurricane strength gusts from midnight through Monday afternoon.

Though Pottorff and many FSU student-athletes live off campus, the former high school state champion in cross country and track & field says the university, athletics program, coaches and support staff have remained in constant communication with student-athletes.

The university is closed through Friday and all athletic events have been canceled.

"Knowing no matter what happens - and if something goes way wrong - we know we have places we can go," said Pottorff, who has remained in touch with teammates and family members.

"Everyone feels comfortable no matter how worse it can be."

Lincoln Park Academy's Caleb Pottorff competes in the 1600-meter run at the FHSAA State Track & ...more

Lincoln Park Academy's Caleb Pottorff competes in the 1600-meter run at the FHSAA State Track & Field Championships on Saturday, May 6, 2017, in Tallahassee.

BRIAN MILLER/TALLAHASSEE DEMOCRAT

The Tucker Civic Center was scheduled to open as a shelter at 6 p.m. Sunday for students and athletes. FSU athletic facilities may also be utilized as shelters for student-athletes.

Pottorff also was among the many student-athletes who picked up an emergency packet of food, snacks and bottled water Saturday morning at the Moore Athletic Center.

Coaches across all sports have detailed lists on the whereabouts of all their athletes.

"We (teammates) been hanging out and texting each other to make sure everyone is good and everyone knows we have each other's back," Pottorff said. "That really helps."

Caleb Pottorff

Caleb Pottorff

Ryals Lee, Jr. photo

Florida A&M sophomore pitcher Jake Lister's immediate thoughts Sunday were on his family in Bradenton.

Irma made landfall as a Category 4 storm over the Florida Keys Sunday morning and continued its steady progress toward Bradenton and the Florida peninsula.

"They are sticking it out, and it's crazy right now; we are just praying for the best," said Lister, a four-year starter in baseball and basketball at Bradenton Christian who lives off-campus with his brother Sam.

Lister also has experienced his share of severe weather. He recalls as a child living in Kansas and taking shelter in the basement when a tornado was near.

Lister said FAMU has kept athletes and students updated on the status of Irma to ensure their safety.

On Saturday, the university informed students they were welcome to remain in the Rattlers' residential facilities and registered off-campus students with an ID could receive lodging and boxed meals at the Foster-Tanner Rehearsal Hall.

The FAMU football team practices on the university's campus on Monday, July 31, 2017.

The FAMU football team practices on the university's campus on Monday, July 31, 2017.

Joe Rondone/Democrat

Lister said he and teammates have remained in contact via a group text message and on social media. Lister said some players returned to their homes in south Florida last week.

"As of right now, we are doing to stay here (apartment)," Lister said.

"Each day it seems as if it (hurricane) has switched routes. But (the university) has made us a aware of what's going on, right off the bat."

Florida High football coach Jarrod Hickman sent out a text message to his assistant coaches and players Sunday morning to make sure everyone was accounted for and safe.

It's uncertain when area football teams will be able to resume practice in the aftermath of Irma. Florida High also is closed through Friday.

"The safety of everyone is first and foremost," Hickman said.

"Last year (after Hurricane Hermine hit the Big Bend) it took us a couple days before we could get back on the field. You first want to make sure everyone is okay and able to get there."

Madison County running back Teryon Henderson rushed for over 100 yards and scored touchdowns of 4 ...more

Madison County running back Teryon Henderson rushed for over 100 yards and scored touchdowns of 4 and 65 yards asMadison County beat Florida High 49-6 on Thursday night, Sept. 7, 2017.